A Shift in Holiday Priorities
The great Indian festive holiday is getting a rewrite. Instead of one long, elaborate trip, families are increasingly opting for multiple shorter getaways. Travel industry reports from October 2026 show a significant uptick in bookings for destinations
that are just a drive away from major cities. This trend, which gained momentum during the pandemic, has now become a deliberate choice, driven by a desire for flexibility, safety, and more personal experiences. Travellers are less interested in ticking off famous landmarks and more focused on finding relaxing atmospheres and unique local flavours. This shift is reflected in booking data, which shows that while popular spots like Goa and Manali remain in demand, smaller coastal towns like Gokarna and Varkala, and Himalayan destinations like Sangla and Kalpa are seeing explosive growth.
The Allure of the Open Road
So, why the newfound love for the road? A major factor is convenience. Driving holidays offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing for spontaneous stops and personalised itineraries that just aren't possible with flights or trains. With soaring last-minute airfares and train tickets booked out months in advance, having your own car has become a 'superpower' during the festive rush. Moreover, India's vastly improved highway infrastructure, with smoother roads and better rest stops, has made driving long distances less of an endurance test and more of a pleasure. The fear of unreliable cars or getting stranded has been replaced by the confidence of modern vehicles and readily available roadside assistance. For families, road trips also foster a unique sense of togetherness and create lasting memories.
Budget-Conscious But Experience-Rich
While the desire for a break is strong, household budgets are under pressure. Recent surveys indicate that urban festive spending is expected to dip slightly in 2026, with many families funding their plans with savings. Road trips offer a cost-effective alternative to expensive flights and hotels. This trend isn't about being cheap; it's about being smart with money. Travellers are choosing to spend more on fewer, higher-quality, and curated trips. They are seeking value in experiences rather than just extravagance. This has led to the popularity of boutique hotels, heritage properties, and farm stays that offer a distinct and authentic flavour of the region. These trips allow families to escape polluted and overcrowded cities for a few days of peace without breaking the bank.
Exploring India’s Backyard
This shift towards domestic road trips is also fuelling a discovery of India's own hidden gems. The focus has moved from 'revenge travel'—the post-pandemic urge to go anywhere and everywhere—to more deliberate and mindful exploration. Travellers are increasingly looking for offbeat destinations that are not commercialised. Hill stations within a few hours' drive of metros, such as Lonavala, Igatpuri, Mussoorie, and Ooty, are seeing a surge in interest. Similarly, destinations that offer a rich cultural or spiritual experience, like Rishikesh, Puri, and Varanasi, are drawing crowds. This trend has a positive ripple effect, boosting local economies and supporting small businesses and homestays in areas that were previously not on the mainstream tourist map.
